Catatonia
Pressing Play
Hello you. Make a cup of tea, put a record on. Welcome to The A to Z of Britpop, your introduction to the bands, music, and characters that defined the most exciting genre of the 1990s. In this article, we introduce Catatonia, the Welsh band whose anthemic melodies, poetic lyrics, and the unmistakable voice of Cerys Matthews brought them to the forefront of Britpop and Cool Cymru.
Britpop was built on personalities, fierce rivalries, soundbites, and, of course, the music that defined a decade. It captured the restless energy of the country and signalled a wave of optimism across the UK that had been missing for years.
Each entry in this series is a fact file, giving you the key details: who they were, where they came from, and what they made. It’s the perfect starting point for revisiting the era if you were there, or figuring out why your mum or dad keeps going on about it.
Overview
Originated in: Cardiff, Wales
Active years: 1992–2001
Associated genres: Britpop, alternative rock, indie pop, post-Britpop
Record labels: Blanco y Negro
Members: Cerys Matthews (vocals)/Mark Roberts (guitars)/Paul Jones (bass)/Aled Richards (drums)/Owen Powell (guitars)Former members: Stephen Jenkins (drums)/Guto Pryce (bass)/Dafydd Ieuan (drums)/Clancy Pegg (keyboards)
Formation and Early Years
Catatonia formed in Cardiff in 1992, led by Cerys Matthews and Mark Roberts, who began writing songs together while in a romantic relationship.
The band’s name was inspired by Matthews’ work in a mental health facility and Aldous Huxley’s The Doors of Perception.
Early recordings, such as For Tinkerbell and Hooked, were bilingual, featuring both Welsh and English lyrics.
Rise to Prominence
Signed to Blanco y Negro Records in 1995 after a series of well-received EPs.
Their debut album Way Beyond Blue (1996) included their first UK top 40 hit, "You've Got a Lot to Answer For."
Breakthrough came in 1998 with International Velvet and its smash single "Mulder and Scully," which reached No. 3 in the UK Singles Chart.
Commercial Success and Albums
International Velvet (1998): A chart-topping album featuring hits like "Road Rage" and the Welsh anthem "International Velvet." The album was certified triple platinum in the UK.
Equally Cursed and Blessed (1999): Another No. 1 album, showcasing a mix of country influences and poetic lyricism. Singles included "Dead from the Waist Down" and "Londinium."
Paper Scissors Stone (2001): The band’s final album, reaching No. 6 in the UK charts but marked by internal struggles and Matthews’ battle with addiction.
Later Activities and Legacy
Catatonia disbanded in 2001 following Matthews’ entry into rehab and a canceled tour.
Matthews launched a successful solo career, releasing albums like Cockahoop (2003) and hosting radio shows.
Guitarist Owen Powell became a radio presenter and collaborated with other artists.
Notable Facts
The track "International Velvet" celebrated Welsh identity with the iconic lyric, “Every day when I wake up, I thank the Lord I’m Welsh.”
Matthews famously duetted with Tom Jones on a cover of "Baby, It’s Cold Outside" in 1999.
Catatonia were central to the Cool Cymru movement, showcasing Welsh pride and talent during the Britpop era.
Defining Lyric
"I'm Andy Cole's tortured soul lost out again in front of goal" – Do you believe in me?
Discography
Way Beyond Blue (1996) – UK No. 32, Gold
International Velvet (1998) – UK No. 1, Triple Platinum
Equally Cursed and Blessed (1999) – UK No. 1, Platinum
Paper Scissors Stone (2001) – UK No. 6, Silver
Essential Listening
"Mulder and Scully" (1998): A playful yet heartfelt track that brought Catatonia into the mainstream.
"Road Rage" (1998): A clever metaphorical hit, packed with Matthews’ trademark wit.
"Dead from the Waist Down" (1999): A lush and reflective single with a timeless feel.
Why You Should Be Listening to Catatonia Now
Catatonia’s music captures the essence of 1990s Britpop with its mix of humor, emotion, and national pride. Their distinctive sound remains as vibrant today as it was in their heyday. Rediscover the brilliance of International Velvet and let Cerys Matthews’ voice carry you away.
See you on down the road.
